APPENDIX F COMPLETE IMPACT ASSESSMENT - … G CALEDON ECO 121GR200916/6. App… · APPENDIX F –...

APPENDIX F – COMPLETE IMPACT ASSESSMENT

According to Appendix 1(3) of the EIA Regulations (GN R.982 of 2014), a Basic Assessment Report must contain the information that is necessary for the competent authority to consider and come to a decision on the application, and must include—– (v) the impacts and risks identified for each alternative, including the nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration and probability of the impacts, including the degree to which these impacts (aa) can be reversed; (bb) may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and (cc) can be avoided, managed or mitigated; (viii) the possible mitigation measures that could be applied and level of residual risk; (j) an assessment of each identified potentially significant impact and risk, including (i) cumulative impacts; (ii) the nature, significance and consequences of the impact and risk; (iii) the extent and duration of the impact and risk; (iv) the probability of the impact and risk occurring; (v) the degree to which the impact and risk can be reversed; (vi) the degree to which the impact and risk may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and (vii) the degree to which the impact and risk can be avoided, managed or mitigated;

This appendix provides a summary of the key findings, impact assessments and recommended mitigation measures identified for the Caledon N2 road upgrade project and include Specialist findings.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

2

Table1. Impact and mitigations associated with the Planning & Design Phase.

No. ISSUE DESCRIPTION OF IMPACT

SIGNIFICANCE NO-GO OPTION

SIGNIFICANCE PRE-MITIGATION

SIGNIFICANCE POST-MITIGATION

MITIGATION MEASURES

GENERAL

1.1

Legislation & policy compliance. During Planning & Design, the proposed development must comply with all relevant legislation.

Direct impacts: If the proposed development is not consistent with relevant environmental policy and legislation, the environment may be adversely impacted.

NONE Temporal: Permanent Spatial: Study area Severity: Severe Likelihood: May occur

MODERATE -

Temporal: Permanent Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: May occur

LOW –

The development must adhere to the relevant legislation and/or policy, e.g. ECBCP, Municipal By-laws, SDFs, etc.

Indirect impacts: None anticipated

- - -

Cumulative impacts: None anticipated

- - -

1.2

Stormwater Management During Planning & Design, inappropriate road design will have an impact on stormwater conditions

Direct impacts: Inappropriate road design may result in traffic safety risks as a result of inadequate storm water drainage planning.

NONE Temporal: Permanent Spatial: Study area Severity: Severe Likelihood: May occur

MODERATE -


LOW –

Flood attenuation and storm water management plans must be drawn up by a qualified engineer and approved by DEA, the ECO and DWS.

The road engineer must ensure that appropriate stormwater structures are included in the road design to manage stormwater and to minimise erosion and sedimentation of watercourses.

The road engineer must ensure that all road sections situated on slopes incorporate stormwater diversion.

The road engineer must ensure that all stormwater structures are designed in line with both SANRAL and DWS requirements.

If any planned construction takes place inside or within 50m of any watercourse, authorisation must be obtained from DWS.

Indirect impacts: May cause increased levels of erosion, sedimentation and pollution of the watercourses.

NONE Temporal: LongTerm Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Definite

HIGH -

Temporal: LongTerm Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: Unlikely

LOW –

Cumulative impacts: Combined inappropriate design and erosion impacts may exacerbate sedimentation into local rivers.

None Temporal: LongTerm Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Definite

HIGH –

Temporal: LongTerm Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: Unlikely

LOW –

1.3

Bridge Design During Planning & Design, inappropriate bridge design will have an impact on stream conditions

Direct impacts: Inappropriate bridge designs can result in the flow of rivers being impeded and the disturbance and erosion of the river banks.

NONE Temporal: Long Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Severe Likelihood: Definite

MODERATE -

Temporal: Long Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: May occur

LOW –

Bridge design must not impede the flow of water or cause erosion in the rivers/streams.

Proper drainage of stormwater must be away from the bridges.

The bridge design must comply with DWS standards and WULAs must be submitted where necessary.


- - -


- - -

1.4 Waste storage During Planning & Design, the failure to plan for waste storage will have an impact on the

Direct impacts: The failure to plan for waste management storage can lead to unsanitary conditions & poor waste management practices.

NONE Temporal: Medium Term Spatial: Localised Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Definite

Temporal: Medium Term Spatial: Localised Severity: Slight Likelihood: Unlikely

A proper Waste Management Plan must be designed


3





MITIGATION MEASURES

environment MODERATE -

LOW –


- - -

Cumulative impacts: None anticipated - -

-

1.5

Soil erosion During the planning and design phase, inappropriate road stormwater design may have an impact on soil conditions

Direct impacts: Inappropriate stormwater design may lead to soil erosion issues.

NONE Temporal: Medium Term Spatial: Localised Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Definite

MODERATE -


LOW –

Appropriate stormwater structures must be designed and implemented.

All road sections situated on slopes must incorporate stormwater diversions.

Flood attenuation and storm water management plans must be drawn up by a qualified engineer and approved by DEA, the ECO and DWS.




If any planned construction takes place inside or within 50m of any watercourse, authorisation must be obtained from DWS.

Indirect impacts: Inappropriate stormwater design may lead to increased soil erosion

Temporal: Medium Term Spatial: Localised Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Definite

MODERATE -


LOW –

Cumulative impacts: Valuable topsoil losses, sedimentation of aquatic habitat, choking of wetlands may result from the combined erosion from poor stormwater design

Temporal: Medium Term Spatial: Localised Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Definite

MODERATE -


LOW –

1.6 Hazardous spillage During planning & design, hazardous waste that is generated, such as used bitumen, oils and offcuts could pollute surface and groundwater resources if it is not contained properly.

Direct impacts: Substances stored onsite may pollute soil should spillages or containment problems occur.

NONE Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Probable

MODERATE -


LOW -

Hazardous Chemical Substances Regulations promulgated in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and the SABS Code of Practise must be adhered to. This applies to solvents and other chemicals possibly used during the construction process.

Contaminated soil must either be excavated or treated on-site, depending on the nature and extent of the spill.

The ECO must determine the precise method of treatment of polluted soil. This could involve the application of soil absorbent materials or oil-digestive powders to the contaminated soil.

If a spill occurs on an impermeable surface such as cement or concrete, the surface spill must be contained using oil absorbent materials.

Contaminated remediation materials must be carefully removed from the area of the spill so as to prevent further release of petrochemicals to the environment, and stored in suitable containers until appropriate disposal.


- - -

Cumulative impacts: None anticipated - - -


4

Table2. Impact and mitigations associated with the Construction Phase.





MITIGATION MEASURES

GENERAL

2.1

Stormwater Management During construction, inappropriate road design will have an impact on stormwater conditions

Direct impacts: Contaminants such as silt, sand and litter could be transported offsite via surface runoff and contaminate the surrounding environment.

NONE Temporal: Long term Spatial: Localised Severity: Severe Likelihood: Probable

HIGH -

Temporal: Long term Spatial: Localised Severity: Slight Likelihood: May occur

LOW –

The site must be managed in a manner that prevents pollution of drains, downstream watercourses or groundwater, due to suspended solids, silt or chemical pollutants.

Temporary cut-off drains and berms may be required to capture storm water and promote infiltration.

The area must be monitored by an ECO on a regular basis.


- - -


- - -

2.2

Waste storage During construction, the failure to plan for waste storage will have an impact on the environment

Direct impacts: Construction rubble left onsite may attract vermin and encourage the growth of opportunistic alien vegetation.

NONE Temporal: Short term Spatial: Localised Severity: Slight Likelihood: Possible

LOW -

Temporal: Short term Spatial: Localised Severity: Slight Likelihood: Unlikely

LOW –

Construction rubble should be disposed of in predetermined, demarcate, licenced spoil dump on a regular basis.

Design and implement a waste management plan.

Ensure sufficient waste disposal services are engaged for the duration of the construction phase;

Incorporate penalties and fines are imposed on contractors regarding undue litter and waste into the EMPr

Provide sufficient bins at regular intervals throughout the construction region and camp;

Implement a recycling programme and employ as few plastics as feasible in the construction camp and activities;

Indirect impacts: Ongoing litter impacts from current use of highway will be reduced through cleaning operations by staff

- Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slightly beneficial Likelihood: Will occur

LOW +

Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slightly beneficial Likelihood: Will occur

LOW +

Introduce a litter clearance programme where litter is collected at the end of each working day within the immediate vicinity of all construction work for that day

Indirect impacts : Stop and go areas will be prone to increased litter as motorists congregate there, unless specific attention to clean-up is

NONE Temporal: Short term Spatial: Localised Severity: Slight

Temporal: Short term Spatial: Localised Severity: Slight

Ensure sufficient waste management is available at each stop and go to reduce and limit litter discarded at stop and go site.

Ensure litter collection focusses on stop and go zones, for collection each day.


5





MITIGATION MEASURES

provided. Likelihood: Possible

LOW -

Likelihood: Unlikely

LOW –

Cumulative impacts: None anticipated - - - -

2.3 Dust generation During construction, dust generated by clearing and grubbing, earthworks and use of temporary access roads will impair breathing for locally located fauna, as well as inhibit photosynthesis and respiration of plants under high concentration.

Direct impacts: Dust impacts associated with the construction phase impacting local communities and agricultural activities

NONE Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: May occur

MODERATE -

Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: May occur

LOW –

Dust control methods must be employed during clearing and construction, using appropriate techniques such as: sprinkling, vegetation cover, calcium chloride coverings, adhesives, cyclone or filter collectors, mulch, wind breaks, tillage and stones or debris.

Limit vegetation clearing to areas only where and when necessary.

Limit clearing and grubbing activities to days with low wind speeds;

Limit vehicle speeds on-site;

Encourage use of paved routes as alternatives to unpaved roads Indirect impacts: None anticipated

- - -


- - -

- - -

2.4

Elevated noise levels During construction, activities will increase local noise levels and have an impact on existing residential and business areas

Direct impacts: Machinery, construction activities and staff all contribute to elevated noise levels during the construction phase

NONE Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: Probable

LOW -


LOW -

Noise control methods shall be employed where possible. These may include:

Selecting quieter equipment where feasible;

Maintaining all equipment in good working order;

Retro-fit selected equipment with dampening measures;

Erect barriers around the construction camp or work areas;

Provide all labourers with the appropriate PPE during work hours;

Employ improved technology where volume gains can be achieved;

Construction activity close to residential and business areas, which includes the movement of construction vehicles, should be restricted to normal working hours (7:00am – 17:00pm) unless approval is obtained from the community to work later.

Indirect impacts: None anticipated - - -


2.5

Hazardous spillage During construction, hazardous waste that is generated, such as used bitumen, oils and offcuts could pollute surface and groundwater resources if it is not contained properly.

Direct impacts: Substances used for construction may pollute soil should spillages or containment problems occur. No go here represents vehicle oils being washed into the surrounding environment.


MODERATE -


LOW -

Hazardous Chemical Substances Regulations promulgated in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and the SABS Code of Practise must be adhered to. This applies to solvents and other chemicals possibly used during the construction process.

Contaminated soil must either be excavated or treated on-site, depending on the nature and extent of the spill.

The ECO must determine the precise method of treatment of polluted soil. This could involve the application of soil absorbent materials or oil-digestive powders to the contaminated soil.

If a spill occurs on an impermeable surface such as cement or concrete, the surface spill must be contained using oil absorbent materials.

Contaminated remediation materials must be carefully removed from the area of the spill so as to prevent further release of petrochemicals to the environment, and stored in suitable containers until appropriate disposal.

Indirect impacts: A reduction in water quality as pollutants from current vehicle use is washed into rivers during rainfall events. This impact can only be mitigated during the construction phase, and is unavoidable during the operational phase.


MODERATE -


LOW -


2.6 Light pollution During construction, vehicles, camps and signage will increase light levels in and around the construction region. Should

Direct impacts: Construction crew, vehicles, construction camps will increase light in an around the construction area temporarily during the construction phase

NONE Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: Will occur

LOW -

Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: May occur

LOW -

Use lights only where and when required;

If any parts of site such as construction camps must be lit at night, this should be done with low-UV type lights (such as most LEDs), which do not attract insects and which should be directed downwards.


6





MITIGATION MEASURES

elevated levels occur for prolonged periods permanent relocation of certain faunal communities may occur.

Indirect impacts: Faunal disturbance from increased light associated with construction activities

NONE Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: Will occur

LOW -


LOW -


2.7

Sedimentation associated with earthworks During construction, upgrading the N2 road as well as the bridges and culverts may cause increase levels of sedimentation and pollution into them.

Direct impacts: Poor erosion control and earthworks management will result in increased runoff and siltation in adjacent streams and rivers

NONE Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Severe Likelihood: Will occur

HIGH -

Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Severe Likelihood: May occur

MODERATE -

Develop a stormwater management plan to ensure compliance with regulations and prevent off-site migration of contaminated stormwater and sediment.




Appropriate stormwater structures must be designed and implemented. All road sections situated on slopes must incorporate stormwater diversions.


- - -


2.8

Heritage impact During construction, activities may result in the destruction and/or exposure of heritage sites like gravesites, artefacts & fossils.

Direct impacts: Although no areas were found which would have required a field assessment along the route between Riviersonderend and Caledon, construction activities, where excavation to bedrock levels occur, may impact on the paleontological sensitivity of the area. Should any graves be found the mitigation measures must apply.

NONE Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Severy Likelihood: May occur

MODERATE -


LOW -

If excavations are going to impact on bedrock of the Lower Bokkeveld Group, a palaeontologist should be contracted to inspect the newly exposed bedrock.

If human graves are exposed, during the construction phase, all work activity in the vicinity must cease immediately, and the Western Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Agency, a Heritage Specialist and the SAPS need to be informed.



2.9 Social 1. During construction, temporary and medium term employment will be created.

Direct impacts: Employment will be created during construction

NONE Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: May occur

LOW -

Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: May occur LOW -

Recruit local labour as far as possible; Provide skills training schemes in order to upskill staff; Provide career counselling services, to assist with CV and job profile creation for

appropriate employees as far as possible.


7





MITIGATION MEASURES

Indirect impacts: The local economy will be stimulated through the influx of workers for the project, as well as the increase of income for those working on the project, who are thus able to spend locally to a greater degree than before

NONE Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: May occur

LOW +


LOW +

Cumulative impacts: None anticipated - -

-

Social 2. During construction local safety and security conditions may be affected.

Direct impacts: The influx of workers and new, temporary residents generally coincide with an increase in local levels of crime. An increase in fire risk also falls within this category.


LOW -


LOW -

No open fires are to be allowed on site; Designated smoking areas are to be demarcated for construction workers; Members of the construction team should be easily identifiable (through the use of

uniforms or name badges) No firearms, alcohol, drugs or trade should be allowed on site; Fines should be given for not adhering to rules and regulations in terms of conduct and

safety. Residents should be informed of the construction activities and schedules prior to the

construction workforce entering the property. Fence and access control to the construction camp site.

Indirect impacts: None - - -

Cumulative impacts: None - - -

2.10

Traffic impacts During construction, an increase in construction vehicles will impact the flow of traffic.

Direct impacts: An increase in construction vehicles, traveling at low speeds, as well as stop-and-go functions and reduced lanes will result in significant road obstructions over the construction period.

NONE

Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Severe Likelihood: Definite

MODERATE -

Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Definite MODERATE -

Ensure optimal traffic management systems in place during construction Reduce traffic impedance to as little as possible Ensure all road safety signage has been placed at the correct areas A Traffic Management Plan (TMP) must be implemented during Project construction.

Specific elements of the TMP could include the use of flaggers and temporary lane realignments to maintain through traffic,

Concrete barriers, signage to direct traffic movements, and possible reduction of speed limits in construction zones.

The contractor should contact local emergency service providers prior to the start of construction to ensure construction activities would not impede provision of emergency services within the Project area during the construction period.

Signs must be kept clean and well maintained if they are to be effective. Press and radio releases are often a valuable means of warning drivers of what to

expect at a site, thus minimising impatient and dangerous behaviour. Workers who control traffic must be properly trained. Traffic controllers must know where to stand, how to slow or stop traffic, and how to

coordinate public and construction traffic movements. Controllers should use two-way radio communication when visual contact between

traffic controllers is not possible. Where the site is suitable and they are available, arrangements should be made to use temporary traffic signals to control traffic.

Traffic controllers and general road workers should wear suitable conspicuous clothing to ensure that they can be seen by motorists

Unnecessary traffic control signs or road markings must be removed as they tend to confuse motorists and make them careless.

Where vehicles are held up in queues, a worker might be appointed to talk with motorists, apologise for delays, estimate the length of the delay, and generally keep people informed.

Speed limits should be consistent with safe site operations and traffic movements. Compliance with reasonable speed limits will then be more likely - If motorists perceive a speed limit to be unrealistic, they are likely to disregard it.

A variety of devices and technology can provide information to motorists, including



- - -


8





MITIGATION MEASURES

brighter, bigger electronic signs. These must be employed where reasonable. A systematic preventative maintenance programme should be established for all trucks,

plant, and vehicles. All access points leading to the area where construction blasting works are carried out

must be manned to prevent entry during blasting. Managers should ensure that new employees are prepared to work in all types of traffic -

They should feel comfortable using flagmen - workers who use flags to signal drivers and warn them that they're approaching a work site -and have enough road sense to never turn their back to oncoming traffic.

New workers should be taught how to manoeuvre around massive pieces of equipment and to safeguard a site for optimal security

Use protective equipment and personal protective gear (such as hard hats and steel-toed shoes).

Reflective clothing is also crucial, especially for night shift work. Noise levels should be monitored at all times to prevent hearing loss – it is suggested

that workers wear earmuffs or earplugs to shield their eardrums from high decibels.

ECOLOGICAL

2.11 Loss of least threatened and vulnerable vegetation During construction, clearing and grubbing, earthworks and vehicle movement will remove vegetation within the project area. Such vegetation loss represents permanent vegetation and habitat loss from vulnerable Fynbos

Direct impacts: Clearing of vegetation for road widening will induce loss of sensitive vegetation


MODERATE -


LOW –

An Environmental Control Officer (ECO) must be appointed to oversee construction activities;

Construction activities must be limited to the absolute necessary only in areas where fynbos vegetation is found.

Less degraded Renosterveld patches (indicated as HIGH sensitivity in Appendix A-5) must be avoided where possible with activities in this vegetation type kept to a minimum.

Site camps & stockpile areas must be placed on disturbed places rather than on intact natural vegetation.

Exclude herbicide use within the first 3m of the road from the hard surface, in favour of short brush cutting (15cm height);

Demarcated NO-GO zones should be avoided.

Vegetation should be cleared in a 1m wide strip adjacent to the hardened road surface, while maintaining short perennial vegetation (100 mm) within the next two metres (shoulder). All remaining vegetation between this safety/visibility shoulder and the fence should be left in a natural state (i.e. no intervention), barring the careful control of invasive species found therein.

Demarcate all sensitive roadside vegetation prior to commencement of activities.

Construction and maintenance crews must be trained on these conditions


- - -


2.12 Loss of critically endangered vegetation During construction, clearing and grubbing, earthworks and vehicle movement will remove vegetation within the project area. Such vegetation loss represents permanent vegetation and habitat loss from already critically endangered Renosterveld.

Direct impacts: Clearing of vegetation for road widening will induce loss of critically endangered vegetation

NONE Temporal: Permanent Spatial: Study area Severity: Severe Likelihood: Probable

VERY HIGH

Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Probable

MODERATE-



2.13 Loss of habitat During construction, the loss of vegetation coincides with the loss of faunal habitat, reducing breeding and rearing locales. Endangered or rare faunal populations may permanently disappear or diminish in size.

Direct impacts: Clearing of vegetation and associated earthworks will result in habitat loss


MODERATE -

Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: May occur

MODERATE -

Vegetation clearance and aquatic habitats must be avoided as far as possible;

Should avoidance be impractical, harm to the environment shall be minimised as far as possible.

Employ brush cutting rather than ploughing, hoeing or herbicide for fire breaks.

Prune indigenous tree species using loppers or saws where they pose safety threats. If their presence compromises safety mandates entirely, fell and stump treat with appropriate herbicide; Indirect impacts:

None anticipated - - -



9





MITIGATION MEASURES

2.14

Loss of soil fertility During construction, loss of clay and humid fractions in topsoil from erosion during construction will alter the soil fertility potential within the region.

Direct impacts: Increased soil erosion and loss of agricultural land (from land acquisitions into broader road reserve) will reduce soil fertility and yield potential


MODERATE -


LOW -

1. The contractor must develop and implement an Erosion Action Plan. 2. Wind screening and stormwater control must be undertaken to prevent soil loss from

the site. 3. All erosion control mechanisms must be regularly maintained. 4. Vegetation must be retained where possible to avoid soil erosion. 5. Construction must be phased in order to minimise the area of exposed soil at any one

time. 6. Re-vegetation of disturbed surfaces must occur immediately after the construction

activities are completed. 7. Disturbed areas of natural vegetation as well as cut and fills must be rehabilitated

immediately to prevent further soil erosion.



2.15 Encroachment and establishment of alien vegetation During construction, invasive alien species are known to colonise and establish in recently disturbed areas, due to the lessened competition and changed conditions. Earthworks inevitably lead to an increase in invasive alien species, which reduced biodiversity and ecological functions.

Direct impacts: Disturbance from construction activities will result in an increase in invasive species along the roadside

NONE Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Will occur

HIGH -

Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slightly beneficial Likelihood: Will occur

LOW +

A Rehabilitation and Alien Management Plan must be developed and implemented during the construction phase to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species.

Alien plants must be removed from the site through appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of chemicals, cutting, etc. This must be done under the supervision of the ECO.



2.16 Soil erosion and increase in erosion potential During construction, topsoil loss from soil erosion during earthworks will results from construction activities.

Direct impacts: Clearing activities will result in exposed soil, thereby increasing erosion potential throughout construction phase


HIGH -


LOW -

Ensure that appropriate stormwater structures are designed prior to construction and implemented during construction;

Ensure that all road sections situated on slopes incorporate stormwater diversion;

Ensure that all stormwater structures are designed in line with both SANRAL and DWS requirements;

All the relevant permits must be obtained from DWS prior to commencement of any activities onsite; this includes areas within 50m of a river/stream and areas within 500m of a wetland;

Develop and implement an Erosion Action Plan that aims to monitor and respond to erosion events.

Rehabilitate disturbed areas as soon as possible after construction;

Regular monitoring for erosion after construction to ensure that no erosion problems have developed as result of the disturbance;

All erosion problems observed should be rectified as soon as possible, using the appropriate erosion control structures and vegetation techniques;

All cleared areas (not used for the development footprint) should be vegetated with indigenous perennial shrubs and grasses from the local area as soon as possible.

Natural vegetation (scrubs & trees) that was remove onsite may be uses as soil stabilizer by placing them on cleared areas if natural recovery is slow.

Indirect impacts: Decline in water quality from siltation of rivers

NONE Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: May occur

LOW -


LOW -



10





MITIGATION MEASURES

2.17 Animal fatalities During construction, vehicles, crew and materials may increase animal fatalities through opportunistic hunting, collisions, accidents or baiting and trapping.

Direct impacts: Interactions between construction staff, vehicle movement and laydown areas may cause animal deaths.


MODERATE -

Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: May occur

LOW -

Train all staff on site regarding the proper management and response should animals be encountered;

Search and clear the construction region prior to work commencing, relocating animals where found;

No animal shall be killed or hurt where possible;

No hunting, baiting or trapping shall be allowed; Indirect impacts: None anticipated

- - -


2.18 Disturbance of local fauna During construction, vibration, noise, smell, physical disturbance and habitat alteration from the presence of construction vehicles and crew will disturb local fauna.

Direct impacts: Construction vehicles, crew, noise, vegetation clearing and light contribute to disturbance of fauna near the construction region

NONE Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Will occur

LOW -

Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: May occur LOW -

Limit traffic speed on-site; Search and clear construction area prior to work commencing, relocating animals where necessary.


- - -


2.19 Poor rehabilitation of moderate and high sensitive areas During construction, poor rehabilitation of sensitive vegetation may lead to the permanent loss of these ecosystems as well as allow invading alien vegetation species to expand. The removal of existing natural vegetation creates conditions that favour the establishment of undesirable species in the area that are typically very difficult to eradicate and may pose a threat to neighbouring ecosystems.

Direct impacts: Poor rehabilitation may result from bad planning or implementation, leading to ecological harm


HIGH -


LOW -

Construction activities must be limited to the designated footprint of the road upgrade route i.e. construction materials, vehicular storage, construction camps etc., should occur in an area that has already been disturbed or of low sensitivity and is at least 50m (but preferably 100m) from a watercourse.

The surveyed construction footprint must be approved by an ECO to ensure that natural vegetation is not unnecessarily damaged.

Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation and re-vegetation must be undertaken.

A Rehabilitation and Alien Management Plan must be developed and implemented during the construction phase to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species.

Alien plants must be removed from the site through appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of chemicals, cutting, etc. This must be done under the supervision of the ECO.


- - -

Cumulative impacts: Loss of Renosterveld as a result of poor rehabilitation will increase the existing loss of 87% of Renosterveld already lost due to transformation in the area.


HIGH -


LOW -

2.20 Loss of animal SCC During construction, upgrading the N2 road section may result in the permanent loss of unidentified animal SCC, especially around the river and drainage line crossings.

Direct impacts: habitat loss, disturbance and direct mortality may cause the loss of animal SCC in the study area.

NONE Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: May occur

LOW -


LOW -

The development area must be surveyed prior to topsoil removal in order to locate and capture any animal SCC and relocate them.

Provide training for construction workers on the contents of the EMPr; The contractor's workers must not poach or trap wild animals.

Indirect impacts: Chain impacts from trophic levels may induce loss of even further species beyond the SCC themselves.

NONE Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Moderate Likelihood: May occur



11





MITIGATION MEASURES

LOW -

LOW -


2.21 Loss of plant SCC 1. During construction, activities may permanently damage or remove plant SCC species present on site.

Direct impacts: Clearing of vegetation may results in the loss of plant SCC

NONE Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Severe Likelihood: May occur

MODERATE -


LOW -

The road upgrade route must be surveyed prior to topsoil removal in order to locate plant SCC and transplant them into the neighbouring undeveloped environment.

A Plant Rescue & Protection Plan must be implemented and managed by a vegetation specialist familiar with the site in consultation with the appointed ECO.

There should be minimal disturbance to Renosterveld areas as successful vegetation recovery will depend on the remaining vegetation.

Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation and re-vegetation must be undertaken as soon as possible; Indirect impacts: None anticipated

- - -


- - -

2. During construction, activities my result in a loss of a small population of Aloe ferox found onsite.

Direct impacts: Due to widening on the south of the road, the loss of Aloe ferox populations will occur.

NONE Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Severe Likelihood: May occur

MODERATE-


LOW -

All aloes impacted by construction activities must be conserved and rescued. All rescued aloes must be transplanted to a suitable habitat or nursery for the duration of

the construction phase; All rescued aloes must be replanted within the site where it was originally found or in

close proximity during rehabilitation.


- - -


3. Activities my result in a loss of a small population of Agathosma orbicularis found onsite

Direct impacts: Loss of vegetation in the road reserve will results in the loss of a small community of Agathosma orbicularis


HIGH -


LOW -

The Agathosma orbicularis community must be clearly demarcated prior to commencement of construction activities.

This area must be demarcated as a NO-GO area during construction No impact on this community will be allowed. No relocation of this community or parts of the community will be considered.


- - -


- - -

AQUATIC

2.22 Disturbance and alteration to surface water regime During construction, activities within a water body will result in a disturbance in surface water dynamics

Direct impacts: Siltation, flow change and river bank morphology change may result from the construction of the larger culverts across the two rivers


HIGH -


MODERATE -

Authorisations must be obtained from DWS prior to commencement of any activities within 50m of a river, stream and dam and within 500m of a wetland.

A copy of the authorisation must be kept onsite during construction.


- - -


12





MITIGATION MEASURES


2.23

Water contamination During construction, work within and near drainage channels and streams will lead to contamination of those water systems.

Direct impacts: Improper bunding, and machinery that has not been maintained properly will result in toxic substances being transported to the nearest rivers


MODERATE -


Construction rubble must not be left in or near rivers and streams once construction has been completed.

Rivers and streams in proximity to the development must be returned to their natural state once construction has been completed.

Construction site camps must be situated more that 100m from any water body.

Indirect impacts: Increased aquatic faunal mortality and general ecosystem health decline for sensitive wetland or riverine regions

NONE Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Sever Likelihood: May occur

MODERATE -



Table3. Impact and mitigations associated with the Operational Phase.





MITIGATION MEASURES

GENERAL

3.1

Spillages of harmful substances During the operational phase, normal vehicle traffic may negatively impact the surrounding environment and biodiversity.

Direct impacts: Normal vehicle traffic may lead to the spillage of toxic substances (such as heavy metals, hydrocarbons, surfactants and oils) which may negatively impact the surrounding environment and biodiversity.

NONE Temporal: Long term Spatial: Localised Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Probable

MODERATE--

Temporal: Long term Spatial: Localised Severity: moderate Likelihood: Probable

MODERATE -

No mitigation


- - -


3.2

Control of alien plant species During the operational phase, alien plants may invade natural areas.

Direct impacts: The lack of an effective alien vegetation management plan may lead to large scale alien plant invasion

NONE Temporal: Long Term Spatial: Project Level Severity: Moderate Likelihood: Probable

MODERATE -

Temporal: Long Term Spatial: Project Level Severity: Slight Likelihood: Unlikely

LOW -

Alien plants must be regularly removed from site through appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of chemicals, cutting, etc.

Development and implementation of a Vegetation Management Plan for all road reserves

Development and implementation of an Alien Vegetation Management Plan for all road reserves

Indirect impacts: Transport of vehicles along the road will coincide with seed spread of invasive alien species, and subsequent establishment and range expansion

Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area


MODERATE -

Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slightly beneficial Likelihood: Definite


13





MITIGATION MEASURES

Severity: Severe Likelihood: Probable

MODER

ATE -

LOW +


3.3

Increase of road safety During the operational phase, the upgrade of the road will change safety conditions

Direct impacts: Improved design and road capacity will improve the road safety for users

Temporal: Permanent Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: Definite

LOW –

(represen

ts ongoing

road deteriorat

ion)

Temporal: Short Term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: Definite

LOW +

Temporal: Short term Spatial: Study area Severity: Slight Likelihood: Definite

LOW +

No mitigations required



3.4 Loss of plant SCC Activities my result in a loss of a small population of Agathosma orbicularis found onsite

Direct impacts: Maintenance of the road reserve will results in the loss of a small community of Agathosma orbicularis


HIGH -


LOW -

The Agathosma orbicularis community must be clearly demarcated at all times This area must be demarcated as a NO-GO Maintenance of the road reserve must exclude this section to allow the community to

grow, flower & reproduce.


- - -



14

EOH CES Environmental Impact Rating Methodology To ensure a direct comparison between various specialist studies, standard rating scales have been defined for assessing and quantifying the identified impacts. This is necessary since impacts have a number of parameters that need to be assessed. Five factors need to be considered when assessing the significance of impacts, namely:

1. Relationship of the impact to temporal scales - the temporal scale defines the significance of the impact at various time scales, as an indication of the duration of the impact.

2. Relationship of the impact to spatial scales - the spatial scale defines the physical extent of the impact.

3. The severity of the impact - the severity/beneficial scale is used in order to scientifically evaluate how severe negative impacts would be, or how beneficial positive impacts would be on a particular affected system (for ecological impacts) or a particular affected party.

The severity of impacts can be evaluated with and without mitigation in order to demonstrate how serious the impact is when nothing is done about it. The word ‘mitigation’ means not just ‘compensation’, but also the ideas of containment and remedy. For beneficial impacts, optimization means anything that can enhance the benefits. However, mitigation or optimization must be practical, technically feasible and economically viable.

4. The likelihood of the impact occurring - the likelihood of impacts taking place as a

result of project actions differs between potential impacts. There is no doubt that some impacts would occur (e.g. loss of vegetation), but other impacts are not as likely to occur (e.g. vehicle accident), and may or may not result from the proposed development. Although some impacts may have a severe effect, the likelihood of them occurring may affect their overall significance.

Each criterion is rated according to Table F2 and Table F3 to determine the overall significance of an activity. Firstly, the criterion is considered in two categories, viz. effect of the activity and the likelihood of the impact (Table F2). The significance of the effect and likelihood are then read off the matrix presented in Table F3, to determine the overall significance of the impact. The overall significance is either negative or positive. The environmental significance scale is an attempt to evaluate the importance of a particular impact. This evaluation needs to be undertaken in the relevant context, as an impact can either be ecological or social, or both. The evaluation of the significance of an impact relies heavily on the values of the person making the judgment. For this reason, impacts of especially a social nature need to reflect the values of the affected society. Cumulative Impacts Cumulative Impacts affect the significance ranking of an impact because it considers the impact in terms of both on-site and off-site sources. For example, the noise generated by an activity (on-site) may result in a value which is within the World Bank Noise Standards for residential areas. Activities in the surrounding area may also create noise, resulting in levels also within the World Bank Standards. If both on-site and off-site activities take place simultaneously, the total noise level at the specified receptor may exceed the World Bank


15

Standards. For this reason it is important to consider impacts in terms of their cumulative nature. Seasonality Although seasonality is not considered in the ranking of the significance, if may influence the evaluation during various times of year. As seasonality will only influence certain impacts, it will only be considered for these, with management measures being imposed accordingly (i.e. dust suppression measures being implemented during the dry season). Prioritisation The evaluation of the impacts, as described above is used to prioritise which impacts require mitigation measures. Negative impacts that are ranked as being of “VERY HIGH” and “HIGH” significance will be investigated further to determine how the impact can be minimised or what alternative activities or mitigation measures can be implemented. These impacts may also assist decision makers i.e. lots of HIGH negative impacts may bring about a negative decision. For impacts identified as having a negative impact of “MODERATE” significance, it is standard practice to investigate alternate activities and/or mitigation measures. The most effective and practical mitigations measures will then be proposed. For impacts ranked as “LOW” significance, no investigations or alternatives will be considered. Possible management measures will be investigated to ensure that the impacts remain of low significance. Table F2: Ranking of Evaluation Criteria

Temporal scale

Short term Less than 5 years

Medium term Between 5 and 20 years

Long term Between 20 and 40 years (a generation) and from a

human perspective almost permanent.

Permanent Over 40 years and resulting in a permanent and

lasting change that will always be there

Spatial Scale

Household At localised scale and a few hectares in extent. This

scale applies to a person or persons in and around

the study area.

Localised This scale applies to the project footprint.

Study area The area directly affected by the proposed site and

its immediate environs (mine lease area).

Traditional

Authority Areas

Determined by local administration.

District District

National Country level

International International level

Severity Benefit


16

In certain cases it may not be possible to determine the severity of an impact thus it may be determined: Don’t know/Can’t know Table F3: Description of Environmental Significance Ratings

Significance Description Score

Low

Acceptable impact for which mitigation is desirable but not essential. The impact by itself is insufficient even in combination with other low impacts to prevent the development being approved. These impacts will result in either positive or negative medium to short term effects on the social and/or natural environment.

Moderate

An important impact which requires mitigation. The impact is insufficient by itself to prevent the implementation of the project but which in conjunction with other impacts may prevent its implementation. These impacts will usually result in either a positive or negative medium to long-term effect on the social and/or natural environment.

High

A serious impact, if not mitigated, may prevent the implementation of the project (if it is a negative impact). These impacts would be considered by society as constituting a major and usually a long-term change to the (natural &/or social) environment and result in severe effects or beneficial effects.

Very High A very serious impact which, if negative, may be sufficient by itself to prevent implementation of the project. The

Slight / Slightly

Beneficial

Slight impacts on the

affected system(s) or

party(ies)

Slightly beneficial to the


party(ies)

Moderate /

Moderately

Beneficial

Moderate impacts on

the affected system(s)

or party(ies)

An impact of real benefit to

the affected system(s) or

party(ies)

Severe /

Beneficial

Severe impacts on

the affected system(s)

or party(ies)

A substantial benefit to the


party(ies)

Very Severe /

Very Beneficial

Very severe change

to the affected

system(s) or

party(ies)

A very substantial benefit to

the affected system(s) or

party(ies)

Likelihood

Unlikely The likelihood of these impacts occurring is slight

May Occur The likelihood of these impacts occurring is possible

Probable The likelihood of these impacts occurring is probable

Definite The likelihood is that this impact will definitely occur


17

Significance Description Score

impact may result in permanent change. Very often these impacts are unmitigable and usually result in very severe effects, or very beneficial effects.

Example of how to use the CES Environmental Impact Rating Methodology when writing up the impacts CES are recommending the write up method outlined below as a way of reducing the amount of descriptive writing normally required. This is based on using the impact rating methodology CES has adopted and made available to you. Impact 1: Contamination of surface and groundwater Cause and Comment It is estimated that as many as 150 construction workers will be employed on site. These workers will generate sanitary waste which needs to be carefully managed and properly disposed of. (Note to consultants: this statement can be longer and can include data (and tables etc) that will justify the impact ratings provided in the impact table below). Mitigation and Management Chemical toilets could be used on the construction site and these would need to be emptied periodically and the waste disposed of at a municipal sewage treatment facility. If one conservatively assumes a volume of 50L of wash water and sewage per individual during a work shift then the total volume of effluent requiring disposal could be ~17m3 per day. Significance Statement

Impact

Effect Risk or

Likelihood Total Score

Overall Significance

Temporal Scale

Spatial Scale

Severity of

Impact

Without Mitigation

Short term

Study Area

Moderate Definite MODERATE

With Mitigation

Short term

Localised Slight Unlikely LOW BENEFICIAL

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